Trampelpfad to Monschau

Given the popularity of Monschau as the prime destination in the Northern Eifel, one may wonder whether there are alternatives to the busy tourist roads that approach the town from all directions. Indeed there are such trails. 

One of them follows the left bank of the Rur (seen upstream) from Grünental. The trail is - in parts - a 'trampelpfad', which is a non-maintained dirt-trail without trail markings. Aside from little-spoiled scenery and nature, the highlight of the trail is its entrance to the town high above the market place, with probably the best views of Monschau that can be had.

After a good lunch break in Monschau, the return trip is not as exciting, but it makes a good ending to a half-day's outing. It follows the 'Rosenthal' Straße - first along old industrial buildings, and the Monschau filtration plant. Soon after, the under-footing becomes soft again, the vegetation lush, with nice views of the Rur stream. At the end, there is the cafe or bistro Grünental, where one can have another round of refreshments or even dinner - on days it is open for business (usually Thursdays to Sundays, unless booked for an event).